Follow Release

Release has submitted evidence to an independent review into the employment outcomes of drug or alcohol addiction, asserting that proposals to make treatment a condition of welfare benefit entitlement is unlawful, unethical, unworkable and unnecessary.

We submit that investment is needed in educating not only Jobcentre Plus staff and those delivering the DWP Work Programme, but also employers, about the issues that are faced by people who use drugs and alcohol problematically. This will have positive practical consequences, and will also ensure a move away from the current environment of stigmatisation.

Nothing will change until the attitudes of employers change, and this is where resources should be directed for maximum impact.